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Exploring Nepal in a different way

Jean Charles Huet from Lufthansa InTouch in Dublin wanted to explore Nepal in a different way. He wandered the streets of Kathmandu, made a contribution to a charity organisation, attended intense training at a meditation centre, and went trekking in the Himalayas.

I ’ve always wanted to visit Nepal. When I travel I like to immerse myself in a new culture and get a bit lost; I wanted to explore Nepal in a different way than I’ve explored any other country – to experience meditation and be involved in the local community, as well as explore the wild countryside.

Before my trip, I made contact with a charity organisation in Kathmandu. With the help of my colleagues I collected school supplies for donation, including stationary and refurbished laptops. Spending a morning with the children at the organisation was both sad and heart-warming.

Wandering the streets of Kathmandu, I was amazed by the treasures the city had to offer: The temples, the kindness of the people, and their spirituality.

Cross-legged for 10 ½ hours

My next stop was the Dhamma Vipassana Meditation Centre in Kirtipur, on the outskirts of Kathmandu. I spent 10 days learning Vipassana meditation; the training was intense – I had to go through 10 ½ hours of meditation in “noble silence” and without making eye contact. That experience taught me how to control my mind, stop negative thoughts and ignore pain.

Trekking the Himalayas

Before leaving Nepal, I had to see the Himalayas. I headed to Pokhara for 3 days of trekking, and my guide took me on an amazing journey which I will never forget. We walked up through forest hills towards the famous Annapurna mountain range with fantastic views. We explored the area around Phewa Lake, saw Shanthi Stupa – a Buddhist monument, went into Adam’s Cave which houses a waterfall, and enjoyed the local cuisine. We also walked across a scary hanging bridge – a metal bridge suspended 200 metres over a raging river. Not for the faint hearted!

My trip to Nepal was an indescribable experience, and I felt deep emotions in each different place. I felt far outside my comfort zone, yet capable to deal with any situation that arose. My memories of Nepal will remain with me for a long time, and I hope to go back and revisit that amazing place!